East Coast braced for severe weekend storms as public urged to stay safe

The RNLI and Coastguard are encouraging people to exercise extreme caution if visiting the coast this weekend, especially along exposed cliffs, seafronts and piers.

It comes as the Met Office issues a yellow weather warning for snow and ice this weekend – with easterly winds predicted to reach gale eight on Sunday, February 7, bringing large waves and a severe safety risk for those along the coast.

Nick Ayers, RNLI Regional Water Safety Lead, says: “We urge anyone going out to think twice about the dangers around our coastline.

"Sadly, around 150 people accidentally lose their lives around UK and Irish waters each year and over half of these people didn’t plan on ever entering the water.

"Slips, trips and falls can be a major factor in these kinds of incidents, especially with the risk of cold water shock for anybody finding themselves in the water unexpectedly.”

Rob Priestley, HM Coastguard Duty Controller, added: “If you’re lucky enough to live near the coast and be in a position to take your exercise there in line with local Covid-19 restrictions, we’d urge everyone to take extra care this weekend.

“Dress up warmly, take a fully charged mobile phone and stay well back from cliffs and strong waves which can be unpredictable and may well include rocks and debris.

“No matter how dramatic the picture, no selfie is worth risking your life for.”

You can find additional safety advice from the RNLI by clicking here.

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